Army Set to Deploy Drones at Battalion Level: reports

Under the revamped structure, each battalion will form a dedicated drone unit staffed by personnel whose primary role is UAV operation. Currently, drones are used only as secondary assets, often requiring personnel to juggle multiple responsibilities. The shift aims to ensure operators can focus exclusively on drone missions.

Additionally, the Army is raising 30 light commando battalions, known as “Bhairav Battalions”, each with around 250 personnel trained for specialised strike operations. New “Rudra Brigades”, all‑arms integrated brigades combining infantry, armour, artillery, logistics, and UAV capabilities, are also in development. These units will support independent and agile operations in future conflict zones.

These reforms follow insights gained from Operation Sindoor: Pakistan’s use of drone swarms triggered urgent changes in how drones are integrated, trained for, and maintained in Indian units. The goal is to institutionalise drone capabilities and develop a resilient supply chain rather than relying on emergency procurement by senior officers